Surgical Treatment Options Some patients do not realize that the main contributing factor to contracting periodontal disease is the lack of proper oral health care. In the simplest terms, this means the naturally occurring bacteria in the mouth grew to toxic levels, damaging the oral cavity. Remarkabl,y the same bacteria that causes periodontal disease also helps to keep the oral cavity free of food debris and aids in digestion. Once gum disease sets in, patients need to seek treatment as soon as possible to ensure the disease does not progress any further than necessary. This is important because if the disease moves on to the advanced stages, there is no cure, just treatment options.Those patients who do not remain diligent in their oral care and continue to brush and floss their teeth at least twice a day will, unfortunately, have to face the facts and deal with the consequences. For those patients who are unsure if they have periodontal disease, and for those who already know they have it and are looking for help, why not come see us at Implant & Periodontics Solutions to discuss treatment. Assessment for Periodontal DiseaseWhile self-examination is always recommended to keep an eye out for signs of changes in their oral health, patients should always pay attention to changes in gum color or discharge at the gumline as well as sores or excessive bleeding. Non-Surgical Treatment OptionsWhile still in the initial stage, the disease can be adequately treated through non-surgical means. However, once it progresses beyond the first stage, surgical intervention will be necessary. There are several different types of non-surgical treatments available, the simplest of which is the use of antibiotics. Due to periodontal disease being bacterial, antibiotics can be quite effective in treating the disease. The antibiotics can come in a cream which needs to be rubbed into the gums, or as a pill. They are typically used in conjunction with other non-surgical treatment methods. One such method is known as root scraping. This involves removing bacteria, tartar, and plaque from the tooth root beneath the gumline. This should be done several times a year to ensure the disease does not progress. Root planing involves smoothing out the tooth root so bacteria cannot cling to the surface and cause decay. Surgical Treatment OptionsOnce the disease progresses to the advanced stages, surgery can be used to alleviate some of the symptoms and, most times, slow the progressive nature of the disease. One such surgery is known as a gingivectomy. This is a simple procedure involving the removal of diseased gum tissue from the mouth which allows new, healthy gum tissue to grow. Pocket reduction surgery is another option which works to diminish the space between the gums and the teeth, which can occur when gums recede during the late stages of gum disease. For those diagnosed with gum disease and who have fears about the possible treatments, please come into our office, located at Implant & Periodontics Solutions. We can go over the options and begin treatment. Give us a call today at 623-556-5442. |
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